Rollei XF 35

The Rollei XF 35 is a rangefinder camera. It was introduced by Rollei in the mid-70s. Until 1980, the XF 35 was produced in six-digit numbers. It does not have much in common with the Rollei 35 series, except for the name.

A slightly modified version of the Rollei XF 35 is the Voigtländer VF 135.

This 35 mm camera is a compact camera. A 40 mm fixed focal length, which cannot be exchanged, is installed in it. This Sonnar 1:2.3/40 mm has a maximum aperture of f/2.3 and bears the imprint “Made by Rollei”. The “Made in” label on the camera is “Made in Singapore”.

The Rollei XF 35’s exposure meter supports film with sensitivities from ISO 25 to ISO 400, and the camera can set the exposure itself, though there is also a Bulb mode and various settings for using a hot shoe flash. Program-controlled central shutter (Copal) exposure times range from 1/650 sec to 1/30 sec.

When focusing manually, the photographer is assisted by a rangefinder with parallax compensation. To get a sharp image, you should be at least one meter away from your subject.

The camera or light meter requires a PX 625 mercury battery. These may no longer be manufactured. So before buying or using a Rollei XF 35, you should find a suitable replacement for the battery.

The film is advanced by hand with a lever. The ten-second self-timer can be set with the lever on the lens barrel. A cable release and tripod can be screwed to the threads provided.

Films for the Rollei XF 35

According to the instruction manual, the Rollei XF 35 is designed for 35mm films. 35mm film is still produced today and can be developed in most labs. A recommendation this camera are the Kodak Ultramax 400* and for B&W shooting the Ilford HP5*.